A short story/prequel to For Darkness Shows the Stars, it takes place after the flashbacks of the exchanged letters in the book once Mal has left the estate and struck out on his own. It continues until he meets the Innovations and makes his deal with them. It is a good bit of background and insight into Mal's character, struggles and gives the reader a broader view of the world and its issues. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoyed DARKNESS SHOWS THE STARS.